2. Determine if there is a Mutual Recognition Agreement for your foreign credentials

Under a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA), there is a reciprocal granting of professional designations for qualifying members of both bodies. The eligibility requirements are set by each body based on an extensive review of each other's accreditation policies and programs. A Mutual Recognition Agreement usually facilitates obtaining the Canadian credential.

3. Review the licensing/registration criteria for Internationally-Trained Accountants and make note of all documents, tests, and requirements that are necessary to obtain

Once you decide that you are interested in getting the CGA designation, you must send documents of your qualifications and work experience to the CGA-Ontario for an assessment. If you have a current or past accounting affiliation outside Canada, you may be exempt from some or most of the requirements to become a CGA in Ontario.

5. Review the assessment and create an action plan to meet your goals

After the assessment, the CGA-Ontario will advise you on what requirements you would need to meet in order to obtain the CGA designation. Your prior education (degree from a recognized or a non-recognized university) and accounting affiliation determines your requirements for admission to membership. Based on the assessment, you might need to enrol in certain university courses, write professional exams, and/or undertake relevant work experience to meet all the requirements.

Is it possible for my international work experience and credentials to help me become a Certified General Accountant in Ontario?

Your international work experiences and credentials can enhance your competitiveness and potentially help you obtain advanced standing towards certain licensing requirements. However, you are likely to still need some relevant Canadian work experience and credentials in Canada to be called a Certified General Accountant.

What are soft skills and are they important for this profession?

Soft skills refer to a set of non-technical or interpersonal skills that influence how individuals interact with each other. They are important for all professions. Canadian employers across all fields and industries have identified the lack of Canadian-specific soft skills and professional workplace communication as the greatest barrier to employment for internationally-trained professionals, regardless of the individual’s qualifications and education. Understanding the local language and customs of business is the key to success in any workplace.

Certain PNN clients can be eligible for a bursary for tuition fee for courses taken at Laurentian University under the Ontario Bridging Participant Assistance Program (OBPAP). Individuals planning to register in university courses should visit that university’s Financial Aid website for the various financial aid options available.

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Professions North/Nord is funded by the Government of Ontario.
Ontario receives support for some skills training programs from the Government of Canada.Professions Nord/North est financé par le gouvernement de l'Ontario.
L'Ontario reçoit du soutien du gouvernement du Canada pour certains programmes de formation.